Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
renowned chroniclers: El Inca Garcilaso de la Vega (1539-1616), the son of an Inca prin-
cess and a Spanish military captain, and author of the vital historical document
The Royal
Commentaries of the Incas
. Cuzco was also the birthplace of the remarkable 16th-century
art movement known as the
escuela cuzqueña
(Cuzco School), a religious art movement
that blended Spanish and indigenous iconography and styles.
The city was at the heart of the last major indigenous uprising, in 1780. Led by the
grandson of an Inca noble, José Gabriel Condorcanqui (known as Túpac Amaru II), it
didn't last long. Condorcanqui was captured by colonial authorities and violently executed
in the city's main square.
Apart from devastating earthquakes in 1650 and 1950, the city remained a quiet provin-
cial capital until the early 20th century, when an American explorer by the name of Hiram
Bingham broadcast the existence of Machu Picchu to the world.
Sights
A resurgence of indigenous pride means that many streets have been signposted with
Quechua names, though they are still commonly referred to by their Spanish titles. The
most prominent example is Calle Triunfo, now labeled Sunturwasi.
To visit Cuzco's principal historic sights, foreign travelers have to purchase a
boleto
turístico
(adult/student with ISIC card S130/70)
, a ticket that covers the entry fee into a dozen
spots. There is also a
boleto religioso
(religious tourist ticket; adult/student S50/25)
, valid for
entry at a number of Cuzco's religious sites. These are sold on-site at the city's various
historic and religious attractions and are valid for 10 days.
Note that opening hours can be erratic.
